On July 8th, Red Wings captain Nicklas Lidstrom discussed the possibility of Mike Modano joining Detroit's ranks with Expressen's Gunnar Nordstrom, suggesting that even a step-slower-than-before Modano would easily keep up with the Wings' puck-possession style, and fit in just fine as a third-line center.

Less than a month but what feels like a lifetime later, Lidstrom revisits the topic with Nordstrom, knowing that Modano will sign with the Wings in short order:

View full sizeAP photoNicklas Lidstrom prepares for another season in Detroit with a new teammate in the fold.

On Friday, the 40-year-old scoring forward will be introduced in a news conference at Joe Louis Arena.

It's something that the team captain, Nicklas Lidstrom, is cheering:

"If Modano decides to join the Red Wings, he'll strengthen us with his experience and goal-scoring ability," says Lidas to HockeyExpressen.se.

After 20 seasons in Dallas (formerly the Minnesota North Stars), Modano was not offered a new contract in the summer. He was approached directly by Detroit. For several reasons. Mike Modano's from Michigan, and now has a chance to end his successful career "at home."May play on the third line

Detroit's coach, Mike Babcock, has said that Modano has a place as a center on the third line, between Dan Cleary and Jiri Hudler.

"He's a very good center for our third line," said Lidstrom.

The idea is that Modano will play defense alongside Niklas Kronwall on the team's second power play unit. Modano has a sharp shot and can use it to Detroit's advantage.

He has a long and successful career behind him, including a Stanley Cup championship with Dallas in 1999.

1459 NHL games

While wearing the American national team's jersey, Modano's won the World Cup in 1996 and an Olympic silver in Salt Lake City in 2002. Modano has played in 1459 games and scored 557 goals and registered 802 assists.

He was the team captain during a period of time with the Dallas Stars, but will not have to pull the load for the Red Wings, where another 40-year-old is responsible for leading the team. That's right, Nicklas Lidstrom.